Tool selection and
introduction
Optimal IT tool selection: Expert advice for your success
Suitable tools are a decisive success factor for the implementation of software projects and the operation of software. The software tools must match the customer-specific processes. The selection and introduction of these tools is therefore of great importance for the efficiency and quality of the development and testing process as well as the operation of software.
Typical fields of application for tools are
- Application Lifecycle Management (ALM)
- Requirements management
- Test management
- Test automation
- Code analysis
Our services for tool selection and introduction
We advise you in all phases of tool selection and implementation. We use a tried-and-tested procedure which we adapt to the task at hand on a case-by-case basis. The selection of a tool is a step-by-step decision-making process based on clearly defined milestones and interim results:
- Identifying the relevant stakeholders
- Identification of the relevant processes and interfaces
- Elicitation of functional and non-functional requirements
- Creation of an evaluation matrix for the selection of the tool
In the requirements analysis, the functional, non-functional, technical and, if applicable, economic requirements must be recorded and documented in a structured manner. These requirements must be used to create an evaluation matrix that enables a comprehensible and transparent decision to be made. On the one hand, this matrix includes knock-out criteria, the non-fulfillment of which means the exclusion of the respective tool from the further decision-making process. On the other hand, a prioritization and selective evaluation is defined for the various requirements.
- Carrying out a market analysis
- Creation of a longlist
- Derivation of a shortlist for the actual tool selection
Based on a market analysis, a longlist of suitable tools is drawn up as part of a pre-selection process. This longlist is to be reduced to a shortlist by applying knock-out criteria and fulfilling important requirements.
- Application of the evaluation matrix
- Workshops with selected providers
- Selection of the tool
The requirements defined in the evaluation matrix are sent to the tool manufacturers and their feedback is evaluated. In addition, workshops including live demonstrations are often held. Based on this information, a selective evaluation is carried out and, as a consequence, the tool is selected.
- Application of the tool in one or more pilot projects
- Integration into existing processes and tools
- Implementation of lessons-learned workshops
- If necessary, customizing the tool to individual needs
It is then advisable to carry out a proof of concept (PoC). The tool is being used in a representative pilot project and put through its paces in practice. The experience gained from this project must be evaluated in order to be able to make corrections (customizing) to the tool or the usage process, for example. It is also integrated into the existing IT landscape.
- Creation of a training and operating concept
- Creation of an implementation plan including pilot groups
- Extension to all relevant users
- Documentation for system operation
A well-planned introduction and training is crucial for the acceptance of the selected tool. This applies both to success in practical use and to orderly regular operation.
The advantages for you
Optimal use of your resources
Optimal use of your resources
High transparency
High transparency
Use of best practices
Use of best practices
Lower risk
Lower risk
Selection of our QA and test tools
Our experience - how our customers benefit from our expertise
As an IT consulting company with 50 years of experience, PTA has many years of expertise in tool selection. Our customers include medium-sized and large companies from a wide range of industries, who sustainably increase their innovation rate and productivity with our support.
Tool selection for an ALM system
The customer is supported in the selection of an ALM tool (Application Lifecycle Management) for test and error management. In addition, a PoC (proof of concept) is implemented.
Introduction of an ALM tool at an energy supplier
The PTA supports the gradual introduction of the ALM tool in the organization. This includes all the necessary activities, including the creation and implementation of training courses.
Profitability analysis and proof of concept for test automation
PTA supports the customer in evaluating and assessing the cost-effectiveness of a test automation tool.
Research in our IT projects in the area of tool selection and introduction
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